MEET BHAVANITES

"Experience is the best teacher and it is that experience that makes us who we are eventually."

Alishba Tanya John, Head Girl (Class 12 B, 2013 ― 14)

Entering into a new atmosphere brings apprehension and fear of being accepted into one’s mind. Gradually, the scenario changed; that “new atmosphere” had transformed into my second home. From being a quiet, reserved girl, Bhavans has shaped into a very sociable yet lively human being. Moreover, my journey in the student council of this prestigious institution has surely made an impact in my personal development.

Being in the student council has given me immense courage and confidence to face challenges, to finish a task on time, to work under pressure with team work to organize various events, etc. From Class Representative, House Captain, Deputy Cultural Secretary to Head Girl. Having almost 5 years of experience in the council has instilled in me the qualities of an efficient leader. Every year during the investiture, the pride of holding the school placard, receiving the badge that makes every council member unique from the rest is an indescribable feeling.

Thanks to my principal and all my teachers, to have faith in me and giving me a chance to develop and improve my personality along with my academics. The school life is the golden period in my life and the experience gained will surely mould me to face my future. I am forever indebted to my teachers for their contribution in my complete development. Bhavans has definitely taken me from nowhere to now here!

Nuzhat Qureshi (Class 12 C, 2013 ― 14)

My life at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan was extremely different from that of other schools. Bhavans is a day boarding school, having its own study timings, reputation and fame.

I myself was finding it difficult to understand and get along with the teaching way of the teachers. But soon with a lot of hard work and support from my subject teachers, principal and friends I came out of it as a good student. Started learning from class 7. I got the understanding as to how one must study to achieve good marks. This was a tough work for me because I only use to score excellent marks when I thought the subject is interesting and I can do it. Years came and went; I got upgraded from one class to another without any detention.

I made good everlasting friends, good rapport with the teachers who taught me. That led to a new birth of qualities in me like writing of poems, making good piece of art etc. Become well known among my friends, teachers which resulted in getting my titles. Bhavans developed in me confidence, self-understanding, and a leader and last but not least a good human.

I am really thankful to my school for giving me a chance to open up and improve myself in all aspects I can improve. Journey with Bhavans will never be lost.

Asma Ishaq Parkar (Class 12 C, 2013 ― 14)

Proud to be a Bhavanite!

My school, Indian Educational School (Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan), is one of the well reputed schools in Kuwait. It has remained victorious in the field of academics for the past seven years. All the credit goes to the highly qualified teachers and motivating Principal Mr. T. Premkumar and the Vice Principal Mrs. Anita Sadanand. Honourable Chairman, Mr. N. K. Ramachandran Menon is the backbone of IES. At Bhavans we, the management and staff, principal, chairman, vice principal and students are like a family: Bhavan’s family, and every Bhavanite here takes pride to be a part of this prestigious institution. I am one of the Bhavanites who loves God, my parents, and this school for gifting me with the memorable experience of schooling through IES. I just want to say that at Bhavans, I feel like it is my home and that is why I want to thank all my teachers, principal and chairman for making schooling such a pleasant experience. This family has given me a lot and that is why I am committed to this family.

Leah Zachariah (Class 12 C, 2012 ― 13)

The school that built me!

On 1st April 2009, with a hope of a new beginning for myself, I walked through the corridors of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan with immense excitement, fear and apprehension as to what my first day at my new school would be like.

Some faces were new, others familiar as I walked into my class 8-C – a bunch of playful yet studious, encouraging set of classmates, even today they play a very important role in my life.

Bhavans is an institution that has brought out my true spirits as a musician and a public speaker. I am truly indebted to my teachers who slog through their working hours for us for inculcating the virtues of an efficient leader, not to forget they have been guiding me in my academics progressively.

Through the past four years, each year being a milestone of success and happiness, Bhavans has moulded me for what I am today.

This being my last year of schooling, and the goal set towards the Board Exams of 2014 – with memories to cherish, moments to yearn for – another Bhavanite is and always will fly high with her head held high!

Rohita Mary Raju (Class 12 A, 2012 ― 13)

Musings as a Bhavanite!

Fresh from the greenness and homeliness of Kerala, I had arrived in Kuwait with great apprehensions about starting a new life in an alien land. My first sight of Bhavans formed a formidable impression in my mind- it seemed like the kind of school filled with ultra- competitive students and strict disciplinarians. With a trembling heart and what I hoped was a courageous disposition, I walked into the class of 9-C, where all my initial impressions quickly broke down to reveal what was at the heart of the school: a homely and caring bunch of people, a collective sense of belonging, a strong moral code that kept the Indian culture alive.

Since then the journey has been anything but dull- ups and downs, successes and failures, moments of mischief, moments of introspection. Friendships were built, strong enough to last a lifetime. The teachers are beyond supportive; they are the pillars of strength for us.

Several occasions in my past three years in Bhavans stay fresh in my mind.

The teacher’s day of 2012, when we had a chance to see a whole different side of our teachers as they performed for us on stage, with no inhibitions, being silly and fun and having none of the austerity of the classroom. That was one of the days we laughed till our faces hurt, sang along and even danced along with our teachers.

Another programme which I’m sure I will look back on with a smile, years later, is the farewell which we threw for our seniors. Nothing can compare to the memories that were created that wonderful evening.

The sports days, annual days, school picnics all form the colourful collage of life at Bhavans in my mind.

Bhavan has changed me. Bhavan has made me a more confident, outgoing and independent person. School life is one of the most memorable stages of life, and Bhavan has made it all the more so.

Shibi Mary George (Class 12 A, 2012 ― 13)

Musings as a Bhavanite!

“School is the best time of our life where our teachers are the potters and we, students represent the clay. They mould us into wise future citizens, instilling the good values, knowledge and also on how to make a worthy living.“

On April 1st 2007, the 2nd batch of admissions were filling up the empty spaces of the newly opened school Bharatiya Vidya Bhavans, Kuwait Kendra. I was one of the few, among those shy students who were excited and were anticipating about our new school. The new surroundings, the well experienced teachers, and the various second languages our school offered and numerous activities were indeed exciting for us. All of this did encourage the students to come out of their shells and explore this whole world with our teacher’s faithful support. The ideology of the school of having academics and cultural event go hand in hand did create a talent in each one of us. Today, after 5 years, all of this has boosted my confidence and determination. Presently, I am a proud student of the graduating class of 2013 and all that this school has blessed me with, is helping me to become a strong individual on the basis of my knowledge, ideals and thoughts. Apart from this our school has always been filled with infotainment. There have been moments when we have enjoyed and had fun, say the numerous class skits that we had performed, the interactive debates, the last minute farewell practices, the hectic exhibitions and of course the joined programs between the students and the teachers, are all unforgettable memories. I thank God for blessing me with this wonderful institution, with wonderful teachers and a management in which students have a say and work for our benefit. Wherever I go I will always try to uphold myself to what I have learned from my high school life and go out to the world spreading the fruits from my education as a proud Bhavanite.

GOD BLESS US ALL!!!

Ankur Krishnadas (Class 10 D, 2012 ― 13)

Experience the change!

Attending Handwriting Classes

After almost nine years of having to endure criticisms and complaints about my handwriting, this summer, I decided to finally do something about it.

In truth, on the subject of improving my handwriting, I was initially quite indifferent. I didn’t care about improving because I didn’t feel there was anything much wrong with it. Much of the motivation I received was from my parents and my teachers. Even my maths teacher strongly emphasized the need to improve my handwriting (though seeing as tenth grade math contained more letters than numbers, I shouldn’t really have been surprised there).

It wasn’t a very hectic schedule. I could come and go whenever I pleased, provided I stayed for an hour each day and I kept my teacher informed.

One major discovery that I made was that no matter how much time and effort you spent trying to beautify your handwriting, it would all be in vain if you didn’t know or at least have an idea about the correct technique of writing.

In a brief period of two weeks, I had succeeded in my efforts. The change was remarkable and quite satisfactory. My parents were satisfied and even my friends were impressed with the change. Moreover, I even began taking a pleasure in writing legibly.

Being an avid writer, I had always spent too much time trying to perfect each answer. But what good is any piece of writing, if no one is willing to take the time and the patience to read it? My improved handwriting helped change that.

25 KD is a lot of money, but I remember spending 40 KD on a certain video game that I just “had to have” for my fourteenth birthday. It had stopped working in two weeks.

Good handwriting is priceless. With regular practice it can serve the writer for a long, long time, quite plausibly, his or her entire life.

My present handwriting may not exactly be calligraphy, but I think I speak for my teachers, friends and parents when I say its appreciably better than it used to be.

Join the Handwriting Improvement Course at Bhavans and ensure beauty and legibility of your handwriting.

Akhil Govind, Head Boy (Class 12 B, 2012 ― 13)

The 1st of April 2008 is one of the memorable days of my life. The day I entered through the gates to this institution to reach my Class 8C. My first day at Bhavans!

Having come from a school where the section C was assigned for the naughty ones, I had that apprehension whether my class here would also be filled with the naughty ones. But nothing could have prepared me for the fun I had in that class of 18 and how much I also gained from each of those people.

Since then 4 years has passed and today I am in my last year here. The experiences I have had here will always be treasured, wherever I go.

It wasn’t a very hectic schedule. I could come and go whenever I pleased, provided I stayed for an hour each day and I kept my teacher informed.

One major discovery that I made was that no matter how much time and effort you spent trying to beautify your handwriting, it would all be in vain if you didn’t know or at least have an idea about the correct technique of writing.

In a brief period of two weeks, I had succeeded in my efforts. The change was remarkable and quite satisfactory. My parents were satisfied and even my friends were impressed with the change. Moreover, I even began taking a pleasure in writing legibly.

Being an avid writer, I had always spent too much time trying to perfect each answer. But what good is any piece of writing, if no one is willing to take the time and the patience to read it? My improved handwriting helped change that.

25 KD is a lot of money, but I remember spending 40 KD on a certain video game that I just “had to have” for my fourteenth birthday. It had stopped working in two weeks.

Good handwriting is priceless. With regular practice it can serve the writer for a long, long time, quite plausibly, his or her entire life.

My present handwriting may not exactly be calligraphy, but I think I speak for my teachers, friends and parents when I say its appreciably better than it used to be.

Join the Handwriting Improvement Course at Bhavans and ensure beauty and legibility of your handwriting.

Ahana Sivaskandan, Head Girl (Class 12 B, 2012 ― 13)

The Bhavans Experience

“The dream begins with a teacher who believes in you, who tugs and pushes and leads you to the next plateau, sometimes poking you with a sharp stick called “truth.” – Dan Rather

In my final year at Bhavans and working towards my 12th Standard Boards, I take some time to contemplate on my journey through Bhavans over the past five years.

I came to this school as a shy, quiet girl trying to fit into a new environment. However, Bhavans was ever welcoming and helpful. My teachers started drawing me out and recognizing my potential while my friendly classmates encouraged me to take part in all activities and gave me the confidence to believe in myself.

Our Bhavans family has always been a close knit group of students and teachers who interact with one another on a personal level – a rare sight in most schools. They recognize unique and hidden talents in apparently ordinary students and help them realize their utmost potential, making winners out of ordinary people.

After coming to Bhavans, I have achieved all round development in Academics, Sports and Co-Curricular activities.The development program of our school has given me the courage to face life ‘Head On’ with a positive attitude.

As I take my final steps in the Bhavans portal, I hope and pray that all future institutions that I go to, I find them as supportive, encouraging and homely as I have found Bhavans to be.

Ankur Krishnadas (Class 10 C, 2012 ― 13)

A Place Where We Belong

It’s been five memorable years since I remember searching for my classroom on my first day back when I was a timid ten year old. It was a very kind voice that greeted me and welcomed me into class 5-C. It was the very kind, considerate and affectionate nature of my fifth-grade class teacher that made me feel more at ease that day and with a handful of affable, animated classmates, I knew right then I was where I belonged.

It is every student’s duty, I have always believed, to think about what they would want to be when they grow up and it’s every teacher’s duty to help them make that dream a reality. Nowhere else have I felt this free to aspire, and so assured by my teachers that I will become what I aspire to be.

Selfless guidance from my teachers and support from my friends is what helped me combat the stress and pressure associated with overcoming the obstacles on the path to achieving my dream. Responsibility was always something that was thrust upon me and has helped me mature greatly. I can recall several times in the past where I used to be completely unwilling to accept even the smallest responsibility before my teachers observed my sheepish nature and helped reshape my attitude.

Every student is raised to think different, speak their mind and fall with the dogged, determined spirit to get back up again. It is because of this encouragement that we students often soar beyond expectations and limitations, in any and every field. But there are times when despite the support, we make mistakes, fail and fall. But even then we always have loving teachers and the best of friends to help us learn from our mistakes, get back on our feet and ready to soar again.

Pratyusha D. R. (Class 9 B, 2012 ― 13)

“To be someone in life, you need to start right!”

As they are called the foundation years for a child the next thing closest to home is school.

I feel that I was and I am blessed to have this opportunity to study at Bhavans.

Very close to my heart are the experiences I have shared from Class-3 to Class-8. I can recollect the special attention, care and support given to me by my class teacher in grade-3 and the encouragement I received there on. My interest in Mathematics, Science, English, Hindi, Social Studies and all other subjects are to be attributed to my wonderful teachers who have been encouraging me through all these years.

I, for sure, had the fortune to know and make some thick friends during the last 6 years. But I have also learnt that agreement with friends along with disagreement is many a time in my favour. In other words I have learnt to make a compromise.

I want to express the great encouragement given to me by my sports teachers, and the resulting love I have developed for sports is inexpressible.

I, at times, feel that I am nagging while I am clearing my doubts, but I really do appreciate and respect the patience and compassion of teachers in clearing the same.

Many a time I learnt both from the students of higher classes and even the lower classes.

In short, my first phase of schooling the primary and middle school was indeed memorable, very supportive and motivating.
My expectations from high school as I am putting my right foot in class 9 are that this footing must be strong and in the right direction, for sure, with the guidance of the school teachers, making me more confident in my subjects.

My expectations are to have friends who would be with me now onward for the rest of my life, friends who would be supportive, motivating, encouraging and dependable.

I want my teachers both in academics and sports to guide me to the pinnacle of success in all the fields that I choose.
Yet I have to tell you all that every student must express their doubts however silly they may be as I have found that my teachers here at Bhavans have always understood my point of view and cleared all my doubts.

I am glad that we all have made the right decision to study here, at Indian Educational School, Kuwait.

Mitoshi Nandi (Class 8 | D, 2011 ― 12)

Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan – Our Home Away From Home

As I walked into that class marked V-D for the first time in my own timid and shy manner, a couple of my classmates came up to me and talked to me, warmly welcoming me to the school. As the day proceeded, I realized that the students were all so sincere, kind, caring and humble. They seemed to know how a person felt in a totally different, unfamiliar world. They never turned down a request and showed me round the school. This is a characteristic trait imbibed in all Bhavanites, because more than three years from then, my friends are still as considerate as ever. Another trait of the students is that they are of a very competitive nature, whether it is the curriculum or the co-curricular activities.

One may come across countless teachers in his or her life, but only a few will leave behind an everlasting impression. Such are the teachers of Bhavans. They’re more than mere teachers- they’re our parents: selfless, inspiring, wise, knowledgeable and affectionate, but firm.
Discipline is the priority at Bhavans. Here, there is one thing that watches over each and every student at all times- a sophisticated network of high definition cameras, continuously being watched by teachers on their screens.At our school, it is seen that every child is given utmost importance towards his or her personal growth and development, in all fields.In my opinion, Indian Educational School is one of the only schools in Kuwait that provides holistic, value-based education to children.

Considering my own experiences here, I think I have grown immensely as a student; as a person. The credit goes to all the teachers and even my peers, who have been always supportive.

Arun George John (Class 10 C, 2011 ― 12)

A Bhavanite’s Reflections

3 years ago I stood outside the gates of the illustrious institution whose fame had spread like wild fire among the expatriate community. I had my doubts at first, whether all the hype about the Indian Educational School was just that, hype. However, my doubts vanished the moment I took my first step into the school.

IES has really done wonders for me. I entered a diffident and shy young boy who had the faintest idea of what he was capable of doing. The immaculate teaching faculty of IES really helped me bring out the light I hid beneath the bush as they proactively and efficiently dished out responsibilities of varying degrees, a plethora of wide ranging competitions and extremely precious guidance of both the teachers and other intellectuals we Bhavanites have had the privilege to interact with. My confidence in my talents and personality soared because of IES. The student to teacher ratio of our school is less compared to the other Indian schools in Kuwait which facilitates better interaction between our teachers, who have been handpicked from the best among the best in India and Kuwait, and us, the ever eager students.

Our school inculcates in us the traditional values that have been imbued in the Indian heritage by vesting in us students serious responsibilities, through our well trained and able teachers who give education an all rounded holistic approach and by giving us the opportunity to glean much wisdom from the sessions with various scholars and eminent personalities in the field of education. The unique integration of technology and our curriculum through the efficient LMS has made our student lives more convenient and interesting with the charming presentation of material and the helpful links, online study materials and intriguing videos that help us understand the concepts taught to us in school better. Our school’s ambience is also quite lovely with its brightly lit and well equipped class rooms, comfortable furniture and vibrantly informative bulletin boards punctuating the walls with splashes of colour and knowledge.

Thanks to the Indian Educational School, myriad students, like me, in the Indian community are able to experience enjoyably wholesome school lives.